Press Release

PUC Approves Settlement for Lower Rate Increase than Requested by Clinton County Water Provider

Published on 12/2/2010

Filed under: Water and Wastewater

HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) voted to approve a settlement for a lower than requested rate increase for the City of Lock Haven – Water Department.

The Commission voted 5-0 to approve the settlement for a $375,000 (31.7 percent) increase in rates, which was agreed to by the city, the Office of Consumer Advocate, the PUC’s Office of Trial Staff. The city’s original proposal asked for a $491,423 (41.6 percent) increase.

According to the settlement, the quarterly bill for residential customers using 14,400 gallons of water per quarter will increase from $80.78 to $104.23 (29 percent). Under the company’s original proposal, the quarterly bill for the same residential customer would have increased to $115.53 (42 percent).

The PUC’s decision only affects customers living outside of the City of Lock Haven. Municipal utility service is exempt from PUC regulation with the exception of services furnished beyond a municipality’s corporate boundaries.

The water department provides service to about 1,060 jurisdictional customers in portions of Allison, Castanea and Wayne townships, Clinton County. It also serves about 2,160 customers within the city limits.

More information on the ratemaking process is available on the Commission’s website.

The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission balances the needs of consumers and utilities to ensure safe and reliable utility service at reasonable rates; protect the public interest; educate consumers to make independent and informed utility choices; further economic development; and foster new technologies and competitive markets in an environmentally sound manner.

For recent news releases, audio of select Commission proceedings or more information about the PUC, visit our website at www.puc.state.pa.us.

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Docket no. R-2010-2174543

Contact:

• Press Secretary
  717-787-5722